The personal injury process can be complex. You may find it especially difficult to navigate the process while you are injured without the help of a personal injury lawyer in Red Deer. To get started, some common questions about a personal injury claim are provided here.
How Are Damages in Personal Injury Case Assessed?
“Damages” aim to provide compensation for the injury, to put you in the same position you would have been in had the accident never happened. Damages are calculated up to the point of the trial and in the future, categorized as pecuniary and non-pecuniary.
“Pecuniary” damages compensate you for financial costs, including lost income, medical care, or transportation.
“Non-pecuniary” or general damages compensate you for pain, suffering, or the loss of enjoyment of life. In Canada, general damages are capped at approximately $340,000 after adjustments for inflation.
Jones v Stepanenko, 2016 ABQB 295 (CanLII) is just one example where non-pecuniary damages were awarded. In 2003, the 19-year-old student, Ms. Jones, was rear-ended by Ms. Stepanenkos. As a result, Ms. Jones’ vehicle was destroyed, she had cuts across her face, soft tissue damage, and chronic pain lasting years.
Ms. Jones was forced to stop working temporarily; her pain limited her career growth as a nurse, she could not care for herself. She also needed to pay for treatment. Ultimately, she received $80,000 in non-pecuniary damages and a total compensation of $222,683.65.
Contact Schnell Hardy Jones LLP, personal injury lawyers in Red Deer, Alberta
If you have been injured and are ready to speak to a lawyer, a personal injury lawyer in Red Deer at our law firm can assist you. We can discuss your specific case with you. Contact us to arrange your free initial consultation at 1-888-342-7405.
